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Region: UK | Usage example: Savings help keep the wolf at bay.

Keep the wolf at bay

Meaning

Prevent trouble from approaching.

Usage

Used when fighting off danger or poverty.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Animal imagery of wolves threatening settlements.

Long before recorded speech, communities used it to describe protection.

Related Idioms

Keep the wolf from the door

Keep enough resources to avoid poverty or danger.

Keep your nose clean

Avoid trouble or misconduct.

Keep someone at bay

Prevent someone from causing trouble.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.